Has anyone had transmissions problems with their pre-2002 S-2000?? Honda "improved" the new transmission for 2002. Does this mean that the old trans was defective? Please let us know. Thanks!!

 

The previous transmission was not defective. Many owners complained about a loud rattle from the transmission during deceleration in the 3500-4000rpm range. This was actually the springs in the clutch hitting a resonant frequency and its pretty common in high performance drivetrains. There were some cases of what's been dubbed the "1-2 Grind" where one of the three 2nd gear synchros would prematurely wear under light abuse and make it difficult for the average person to complete the shift. Both these issues were addressed in the MY2001 and MY2002 S2000's, with the more radical changes in the MY2002's.

So no the old tranny wasn't defective, just quirky. I have a very pronounced case of the clutch rattle and Honda has offered to fix it, but understanding what causes the noise and what needs to be done for them to fix it doesn't warrant the work. I've decided not to mess with it. Besides including my aftermarket fuel pump, the supercharger whine, the road noise from RCompound tires, the loud exhaust, and a highstung engine; what's a little buzzing from the clutch? Its all part of the experience for me.

I must comment that the S2000 transmission is smooth but the MY2002's are freaking silk.